JES 901 Jainism And Spiritual Awakening E9

This document, "Jainism and Spiritual Awakening E9" by the JAINA Education Committee, serves as a comprehensive introduction to the Jain faith, particularly for English-speaking audiences. It aims to bridge an educational gap by providing accessible information on Jain philosophy, ethics, practices, and history.

Key Themes and Concepts Covered:

• Core Principles: The book emphasizes the foundational principles of Jainism, including Ahimsa (non-violence) as the supreme duty and the true nature of the soul, Anekäntaväda (non-absolutism) promoting understanding of multiple viewpoints, and Aparigraha (non-possession) advocating for limited desires and possessions.
• Spiritual Awakening: The text outlines the Jain path to spiritual awakening and liberation (Moksha), which is achieved through the "Jain Trinity": Samyag-Darshan (Right Conviction), Samyag-Jnän (Right Knowledge), and Samyak-Chäritra (Right Conduct).
• Concept of God: Jainism does not believe in a creator God. Instead, it venerates Tirthankaras or Arihantas, who are enlightened human beings who have achieved liberation through their own efforts and shown the path to others. The ultimate goal for every soul is to become a Siddha, a pure, liberated soul.
• Karma Philosophy: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the doctrine of Karma, explaining how actions (influenced by intention) lead to the bondage of karmic particles to the soul. The text details the nine Tattvas (fundamentals), including Jiva (soul), Ajiva (non-living substances), Äsrava (causes of bondage), Bandha (characteristics of bondage), Punya (merit), Päp (sin), Samvar (stoppage of new karma), Nirjarä (removal of old karma), and Moksha (liberation).
• Spiritual Practices: The book outlines various spiritual practices to achieve liberation, including:
  • Samvar: Stopping the influx of new karma through practices like the five Samitis (carefulness), three Guptis (restraints), ten Yati Dharma (religious virtues), and twelve Bhävanäs (reflections).
  • Nirjarä: Removing accumulated karma through Tapa (austerities), both external (fasting, limiting food) and internal (repentance, study, meditation).
  • Daily Observances: The six essentials (Ävashyaka) practiced daily by Jains, with slight variations between Shvetämbar and Digambar traditions.
  • Jain Yoga: The text explains yoga in the Jain context as any activity that purifies the mind and aids in karma destruction, including paths of devotion, knowledge, action, and Ashtanga Yoga.
• Ethical Living: Jain ethics strongly promote compassionate living, respect for all life forms, and a disciplined lifestyle. This extends to ecological considerations, with a detailed discussion on the ethical implications and environmental impact of dairy farming, advocating for veganism as a more aligned practice with Ahimsa.
• Code of Conduct: The book details the Five Great Vows (Mahävrata) for ascetics and the Twelve Anuvratas (minor vows) for laypeople, aimed at guiding conduct in thought, speech, and action.
• Jain Sects and Scriptures: It provides an overview of the two major traditions, Shvetämbar and Digambar, and their sub-sects, along with a description of Jain scriptures (Agams) and literature.
• Jain Symbols and Holidays: The document explains the significance of key Jain symbols and describes major religious holidays and greetings.
• Relevance to Modern Times: The book concludes by highlighting the profound relevance of Jain principles for contemporary society, advocating for peace, equality, environmental protection, and ethical living.

In essence, "Jainism and Spiritual Awakening" serves as an educational resource to disseminate the profound spiritual and ethical teachings of Jainism, encouraging compassionate living and spiritual self-improvement.